(どくがく)

どくがく
noun, suru verb
self-study, self-education, teaching oneself
1. self-study, self-education
Learning or studying something on one's own without formal instruction or a teacher.
日本語(にほんご)独学(どくがく)(まな)んだ。
I learned Japanese through self-study.
独学(どくがく)でプログラミングを()につけた。
I acquired programming skills through self-teaching.
独学(どくがく)には(つよ)意志(いし)継続力(けいぞくりょく)必要(ひつよう)だ。
Self-study requires strong willpower and persistence.

独学(どくがく) refers to studying independently without a teacher or formal instruction.

COMMON PATTERNS:

  • 独学(どくがく)で〜を(まな)ぶ: to learn ~ through self-study
  • 独学(どくがく)()につける: to acquire through self-teaching
  • 独学(どくがく)する: to self-study (as a verb with する)

USAGE NOTE:
Often used to describe learning languages, instruments, programming, or other skills outside of formal education. Can imply dedication and effort.